Public Universities in Washington State?

Hey guys, I'm starting to narrow down my college search and I'm considering public universities in Washington state. I was wondering what the reputation of these schools are like? What's the academic experience? Living arrangements? Campus culture? If anyone who's attending (or attended) could share their experiences, that'd be super helpful!

Sure, happy to give an overview of some of the key public universities in Washington State!

1. University of Washington (UW): UW is highly reputed, especially for its STEM programs, including Computer Science, Engineering, and Medicine. It carries a somewhat competitive academic environment but provides a plethora of research opportunities. UW has a three-campus system (Seattle, Bothell, and Tacoma), with Seattle being the main one. Housing is offered for underclassmen, but many choose to relocate off-campus in their later years. The campus culture here is vibrant with an active party scene, Greek life, and numerous student organizations.

2. Washington State University (WSU): WSU, located in Pullman, is known for its programs in Business, Engineering, and Agriculture. It provides a more relaxed and communal academic environment than UW. WSU guarantees on-campus housing for all incoming freshmen as long as they apply by the deadline, and the school is highly residential, meaning most students live on or near campus. WSU has a strong school spirit, and its sports teams are passionately followed.

3. Western Washington University (WWU): Located in Bellingham, WWU is known for its liberal arts programs and commitment to sustainability. Class sizes are small, promoting close relationships with faculty. Housing is not guaranteed for all students, but there are many on and off-campus options. The campus culture at WWU is laid-back and outdoor-oriented, with a strong focus on community service.

4. Eastern Washington University (EWU): EWU in Cheney offers practical programs like Education, Business, and Physical Therapy. It has small class sizes and faculty are known for being approachable. EWU has on-campus housing, and there's also off-campus housing in Cheney and nearby Spokane. As for campus culture, EWU has a tight-knit, smaller community feel and offers many outdoor activities for its students.

Remember, everyone's experience can differ based on their interests, so take some time to visit the schools or attend virtual tours, if possible. This will help you gauge the environment to see if it fits what you're looking for in higher education. Best of luck with your college search!